Atlantis
Parents say
Based on 3 reviews
Kids say
Based on 11 reviews
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Atlantis -- while it's based on ancient myths and historical characters -- takes a lot of dramatic liberties when it comes to the facts, so it's best to take its plot lines with a grain of salt. The violence is fantasy-grade, so you'll see some scary monsters and mythical creatures along with characters who use weapons (although there's very little blood). You'll also find romantic subplots with light sexual innuendo and some allusions to drunkenness.
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No supposed good qualities negate the ugly violence
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What's the Story?
When Jason (Jack Donnelly) jumps into a small submarine to look for clues to his missing father's whereabouts, he finds himself standing on the shores of ATLANTIS, an ancient city brimming with familiar names and fantastical creatures. But, while Jason's new friends Hercules (Mark Addy) and Pythagorus (Robert Emms) help him right wrongs all over town, he must continue his search for the truth about his origins.
Is It Any Good?
Judging from the special effects alone -- which, at times, are downright goofy -- Atlantis was clearly not intended to impress. But it was engineered to entertain families with older kids, and it pulls that off with reasonable success thanks to a trio of likable do-gooders, an ever-rotating stable of evildoers, and a much-needed splash of comedy.
Since Atlantis takes so many liberties with figures and facts, it's not the best place to go hunting for historical accuracy. For one thing, it has Hercules hanging out with Pythagoras (yes, the same guy who gave us that nifty theorem) and getting the hots for a yet-to-be-snake-haired Medusa, ignoring the fact that none of them ever would have known each other. But, on the upside, it just might inspire kids to do their own research and uncover a world that's rich in myth and fantasy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the Greek myths and historical figures Atlantis is based on. How accurate is the show's take on ancient history? What are the downsides to taking creative liberties with actual events? What are the upsides?
How does fantasy violence compare to real violence? Does exposure to fantasy violence promote violent behavior in real life?
How does Atlantis compare to other movies and television series set in ancient times? In your opinion, is it a good "family show"?
TV Details
- Premiere date: September 28, 2013
- Cast: Jack Donnelly, Mark Addy, Robert Emms
- Network: BBC America
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Adventures, Great Boy Role Models, History
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: October 14, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Clash of the Gods
Docudrama sheds light on the Greek gods' gritty origins.
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Hercules: The Legendary Journeys
Campy '90s action series has solid messages for teens.
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Xena: Warrior Princess
Mythology and action-adventure for teens and up.
For kids who love heroes and myths
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